Marina Pecorino
Managing Editor of Content & Statistics

I was born and raised in north Florida, which unfortunately is not known for its diversity. So, having the chance to experience a convention space filled with piercing industry professionals definitely has a unique impact on me each year at Conference. Seeing so many members of a subculture in close proximity is incredible on its own, but experiencing such a high level of colleague support and strong eagerness for professional growth makes all the difference. As we all prepare for this exciting week of classes, camaraderie, and fun, please take a read through our pre-Conference issue. Julie Taylor and April Thomas have provided some tips for preparing from a business perspective. Frankie Pistone has written some very important things to consider if you are covering at a studio during Conference as well.

As I get ready to embark on my second Grand Summer Adventure and a shift in career directions, I find myself thinking about the role that APP has played in the past several years of my life. I can honestly say that volunteering has forever changed me. The support I’ve received from my fellow volunteers and colleagues has helped provide me with the confidence to take professional risks, from which I’ve had some incredible experiences. It has been quite a journey to learn that there is a place (or several) for the real “me” in the workforce. In this issue, Stephie Von Hütter Thomas describes a similar sensation during her graduate studies. The people I’ve met and worked with as a result of Conference and the APP have played a significant role in my professional identity and the course of my work life.

As I prepare to embark on a summer’s worth of exploration, culminating in our shared week in Vegas, I reflect on all the professionals I’ve connected with since my first APP Conference in 2012. Since then, I’ve witnessed and been a part of industry collaborations at all different levels around the world. As a result, I am finally learning that travel and consistent work are not mutually exclusive.

Conference is a family reunion of sorts. Every year piercers save up, plan, and buzz about seeing all of their industry family. The volunteer family is already buzzing with talks of hugs, coffee runs, nerdy late night puzzling, and Legos. It truly is an amazing week, I can’t wait to see my industry family and meet new members of our tribe in just a few short weeks!